Daveyonne Howard Sentenced to 40 Years for Killing 11-Year-Old Boy During Car Break-In
Houston man, Daveyonne Howard, 22, was sentenced on Wednesday to 40 years in prison for the 2022 murder of 11-year-old Darius “DJ” Dugas, Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg announced Wednesday.
The tragedy occurred on February 3, 2022, during a winter storm at an apartment complex in northeast Harris County. DJ was heading to his family’s car to grab his jacket when Howard, caught breaking into another vehicle, opened fire. The gunshots were meant for the car owner who confronted Howard, but DJ was struck in the chest instead.
The boy was rushed to the hospital but did not survive. Days later, Howard was arrested and charged with murder. He pleaded guilty earlier this year and received his sentence after a punishment hearing.
Howard must serve at least 20 years of his sentence before becoming eligible for parole..
